Resources / Solutions / Reducing Fastener and Assembly Costs With Extruded Features

This solution paper continues our series in showing some of the advantages of using the aluminum extrusion process as illustrated by the Alex-Cube business card holder that you can find on our web site at www.alexandriaextrusion.com/aec/resources/solutions.cfm. This paper will explain ways to reduce fastener and assembly costs with extruded features for your new project designs. (Please refer to the enclosed die drawing.)

Snap Fit Assemblies
A “snap-fit” joint (O) is one that is self-locking and requires no additional fasteners to hold the joint together. Several rolled shapes, riveted together, can be replaced by a single half moon snap fit (F), resulting in high strength while eliminating joining costs.

Hinged Assemblies
The cross-section of the components of a hinge joint (B) have ball and socket shapes that allow them to rotate without separating. Hinge action through 60 to 90 degrees is easy to obtain; incorporating adequate reinforcement, hinge joints may be designed to rotate beyond 90 degrees. Designing an appropriate hinged design frequently can eliminate welded assemblies and reduce cost while both strength and accuracy are increased.

Slide Fit Assemblies
The joining of aluminum extrusions can also be accomplished by designing a slide fit (Q) or telescoping assembly, which properly balances the advantage of lightweight material, ease of positioning and encompassing the need for rigid, straight standards, while allowing for the extruded part to accept color with different anodizing options.

Alexandria Extrusion Company offers an in-depth aluminum extrusion seminar at your site where we can educate designers and engineers about aluminum extrusion designing options, cost drivers, and benefits of aluminum extrusions. If you would like to discuss your designing needs or to learn more about our aluminum extrusion seminar, please contact your sales specialist. Please visit our Web site at www.alexandriaextrusion.com for more information. If you would like an additional Alex-Cube business card holder, please send your request to Steve Schabel, Marketing Manager, at sschabel@alex-extrusion.com.